Fisheries is a traditional and important occupation in Telangana State apart from being an important source of food nutrient. Fisheries sector is contributing about 0.6 percent to the State GVA in 2015-16. The Government aims at (i) increase in fish production and productivity through increasing fishery base, (ii) achieve self- sufficiency in fish seed, (iii) supply of fish at an affordable price and in hygienic condition and (iv) improve the living condition of people depending on fisheries through welfare programs. Source: Department of Fisheries, Government of Telangana During 2015-16, up to November, 2015, 1.71 Lakh tonnes of fish and prawn is produced in Telangana as against target of 3.20 Lakh tonnes. The details for last seven years are furnished below: The resource base of fisheries in the State include 78 reservoirs spreading about 1.85 lakh hectares, 35,031 tanks spreading over an area of 4.01 lakh hectares. In order to encourage freshwater aquaculture in the state, the Government simplified the procedures for registration through the issuance of simplified guidelines. So far 474 ponds covering an area of 781 Ha has been issued with certificate of registration. Major Schemes of the Government: Strengthening of Fisheries Data Base and Networking: Under this scheme, the inland water bodies are being mapped by Central Inland Capture Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore with Remote Sensing Technology. This scheme is fully funded by the Government of India. Group Accident Insurance Scheme (GAIS) for Fishermen: The premium under Group Accident Insurance Scheme for fishermen is Rs.20.27 per head which is shared equally by Central and State Governments at the rate of Rs.10.135 per fisherman. The Ex-gratia payable is Rs.2,00,000/- in case of death/permanent disability and Rs.1,00,000/- in case of partial disability and a cover of Rs. 10,000/- towards hospitalization expenses in the event of accident. The Government of Telangana is also paying Rs.1 lakh as ex-gratia to the dependents of the deceased fishermen in addition to the amount payable under GAIS. The lives of 3.07 lakh fishermen are insured for the year 2015-16. Development of Fisheries: With an objective to improve productivity, reduce post harvest losses, increase livelihood support and welfare of fishermen in capturing and culturing of fisheries a comprehensive scheme for Fisheries Development’ is being implemented. Infrastructure and beneficiary oriented programmes such as Construction of Community Halls for Inland fishermen (including SC/ST), Supply of Boats and nets to reservoir, Assistance for Retail Fish Marketing, Establishment of fish/prawn farm or Fish Seed Farm or Fish Hatchery etc. undertaken as a part of this scheme.
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